Birthplace of Wesleys wins Lottery windfall

The 457,000 grant will see the completion of restoration work at Grade 1 listed St Andrew's Church in Epworth, North Lincolnshire.

Visitors are drawn from all over the world to the town where John and Charles Wesley, founders of Methodism, were born and where their father, Samuel, was rector for four decades. The church is one of the key sites in the Wesley trail.

In 1742 John Wesley wasn't allowed into the church by his father's successor and had to preach outside by his tomb. Outdoor services are still often held there by visiting priests.

A new visitor centre will be built in the base of the tower of the 12th century church, which will host displays about the Wesleys, as well as the wider history of the area.

The font will be moved away from the main door and it will be encircled by a new heritage pavement with clay tiles decorated by schools and community groups.

A key part of the project is installing a new limestone floor with underfloor heating to conserve its ancient interior.

The Rev Ian Walker, Priest in Charge of the Epworth Group of Parishes, said "We now have a once in a lifetime opportunity to transform the interior of St Andrew's enabling it to have a wider ministry both to our local community and to the many visitors drawn here by Epworth's part in the history of Christianity."

Fiona Spiers, head of the Heritage Lottery Fund for Yorkshire and Humber, said: "We are delighted that this investment will go towards completing such important restoration, both conserving the church for future generations and bringing benefits to the town, its local community and visitors alike."